Rising star chef departs popular new bar but seafood tower remains

In addition to the rumors about the reasons for Leon's Lounge's sudden closing, another news item emerged from Monday night's oyster shucking competition at Southern-inspired cocktail bar Julep. Adam Garcia, Julep's chef who had been previously announced as a competitor, was not present for the event. A representative confirms that Garcia is no longer with Julep.

The email continued with the following statement: "Adam is no longer working at Julep. We've enjoyed having him at Julep, (he is) immensely talented, and we wish him the best in his future endeavors. We are confident he will be a strong force in Houston's restaurant scene for years to come."

Garcia, who did not immediately return a request for comment, came to Julep after stints at both The Pass & Provisions and Revival Market. Tabbed as a CultureMap Tastemaker's Rising Star Chef nominee in 2014, expect Garcia to emerge at a new position quickly.

In the meantime, Julep's signature cold seafood menu will continue with the promise of "maintaining high quality and standards" even in the wake of Garcia's departure.